Which type of feeder takes in water and filters it for small organisms?

Filter feeders are organisms that take in water and extract small particles, such as bacteria, plankton, and other microorganisms, from it. This feeding strategy allows them to efficiently obtain nutrients from their environment by passing water through specialized structures, such as gills or filter nets, which trap the food particles while allowing water to flow out. This method is highly effective in aquatic environments, where food can be abundant in the water column.

In contrast, fluid feeders such as some insects and birds extract liquid nourishment from their food source, often by sipping. Substrate feeders, on the other hand, live on or in their food source and consume it as they move through it, rather than filtering it from water. Herbivores primarily feed on plant material, which involves different mechanisms and adaptations that do not involve filtering water for small organisms. Thus, the definition and function of filter feeders make this option the most accurate choice regarding the question.